The trip back to Bangkok was entertaining, and also immediately showed us how inefficient and cumbersome Thailand is. Thai Air Asia was over an hour late, which made us arrive at 2.30am Bangkok local time.
At Subvarnabhumi, we arrived at the Domestic Terminal and had to leave the building to get into a bus to get into the International Terminal. Why could we not go there straight away?
Then, at immigration, only 3 berths were open. We waited over 4o minutes for our turn...so slow!!!
On the plane, there was an old farang who kept STARING at a Thai boy with a huge afro hair-style, and I really mean staring. Staring as in looking at the poor boy for a minute from close distance. The farang was travelling with his ex-moneyboy boyfriend who sat behind him (don’t ask me why BEHIND, there was a free seat next to him) in turn kept boasting about his newly-acquired Australian passport (received courtesy of the farang I suppose) to a teenage French-North African traveller.
Ex-moneyboy was telling the French-North African Teenager how he could not enter France with a Thai passport because his hair is long. Now with the Australian Passport, everything “so easy”. French-North African Teenager wanted to stay in Pattaya for the night with a friend (never mind it was 3.30 am by the time we left the airport) Ex-moneyboy let him graciously call from his phone. It’s easy to offer services if someone else (the farang) pays eventually, isn’t it?
Then, the bf and I took a taxi from the departures floor. We always do that. There were only 3 waiting though. The driver was extremely happy, I quickly discovered why. The meter was not on, which I only discovered after about 1 km.
I told him to use the meter. Taxi driver found an excuse. I told him very firmly to use the meter. He turned it on: 61 baht already. I asked him: Why 61 and not 35? He found an excuse. My voice got firmer and I told him that I wont accept this. He put it back to 35 and his mood dampened.
I only had a 500 baht note in my wallet and knew he would make trouble, so I told him to stop at 7eleven just outside my condo. He DID make the trouble I expected so I went to 7eleven to buy water.
The bf waited outside with the taxi driver so he wouldn’t drive off with our luggage. He demanded I give him 50 baht more, because he has to bribe the policeman. I wasn’t prepared to finance his bribe but eventually gave the man a little tip, which I normally do for taxi drivers anyway.
Both of us were happy and we managed to save our faces. It was quite relieving to get out of this situation unscathed. He was a rough guy, and these guys can get violent if you make them angry. I suppose showing a little bit of cultural sensitivity is the way to go in these situations.
Make it appear like both gave in a little bit. The “Western way” of standing up for your right and argue will not get you far here. You may spend slightly less money, but people will look down on you.
At 3.30am, we were finally back in bed, exhausted but happy.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Exploring China - Guangzhou VI
On the last day we became a bit lazy but still managed to drag ourselves out into town for some sight-seeing. First stop was the newly developed town, which is meant to become the business hub of Guangzhou.
New City 
Guangzhou TV and Entertainment Tower
New City
It is impressive! There are new skyscrapers forming a perfectly straight line through half of the city, starting with the Eastern Railway Station, the Tianhe Shopping area and the CITIC Building through the new city to the massive 610 metres high TV and sightseeing tower.
This is how China shows its new might. And admittedly, they do it with style. They employ the best architects world-wide and build absolutely stunning buildings and areas. Nevertheless, when I took pictures of the tower, a civil-clothed watchman was stalking us. I do not know why they need to do that…what is wrong with me taking pictures of their new pride?
This is how China shows its new might. And admittedly, they do it with style. They employ the best architects world-wide and build absolutely stunning buildings and areas. Nevertheless, when I took pictures of the tower, a civil-clothed watchman was stalking us. I do not know why they need to do that…what is wrong with me taking pictures of their new pride?
Guangzhou TV and Entertainment Tower
In the evening, we took the gondola up Baiyun Mountain. Sadly it rained heavily so we didn’t get to see much of the city from the top. However there was a troop of gays waiting for us at the gondola station. They stalked us, watched us, made intense eye-contacts and then disappeared to the toilets.
We on the other hand went back to the hotel and took the taxi out the airport.
Gondola up Baiyun Mountain
Gondola up Baiyun Mountain
I must say that this was one of the most fascinating and rewarding trips I had ever done. Guangzhou is a great and liveable city, even more so than Bangkok. It has attractions, culture, interesting developments and a very rich history.
By the way, I am not employed by the local tourist bureau!! I am just really fascinated by developments in China, and even more fascinated after having seen them. It gave me appetite for a lot more…
The people were unexpectedly friendly, even though hardly anyone spoke any English at all. They were delighted at our interest for China and curious.
One prejudice is true though: Chinese people are very loud. They talk as if they were in a constant argument! You get used to this very quickly though, and back in Thailand, people seem awfully quiet…
As for the gay culture, I read that it is evolving. The gays in Guangzhou are certainly not as open as their counterparts here in Thailand. Most young men are distinctively macho, or at least act it. Me and the boyfriend got many inquisitive but also interested and flirty looks.
They must have known that we were boyfriends even though we refrained from any “PDA”. Even though bars and saunas apparently have sprung up, and internet dating is evolving (judging by the amount of profiles from Guangzhou on sites such as gayromeo and fridae), cruising still seems an option.
I even read that there are a lot of factory workers who have become moneyboys. Who would have thought, Silom exists in Guangzhou too!;)
By the way, I am not employed by the local tourist bureau!! I am just really fascinated by developments in China, and even more fascinated after having seen them. It gave me appetite for a lot more…
The people were unexpectedly friendly, even though hardly anyone spoke any English at all. They were delighted at our interest for China and curious.
One prejudice is true though: Chinese people are very loud. They talk as if they were in a constant argument! You get used to this very quickly though, and back in Thailand, people seem awfully quiet…
As for the gay culture, I read that it is evolving. The gays in Guangzhou are certainly not as open as their counterparts here in Thailand. Most young men are distinctively macho, or at least act it. Me and the boyfriend got many inquisitive but also interested and flirty looks.
They must have known that we were boyfriends even though we refrained from any “PDA”. Even though bars and saunas apparently have sprung up, and internet dating is evolving (judging by the amount of profiles from Guangzhou on sites such as gayromeo and fridae), cruising still seems an option.
I even read that there are a lot of factory workers who have become moneyboys. Who would have thought, Silom exists in Guangzhou too!;)
Exploring China - Guangzhou V
At Shangxiajiu Street, the teenie shopping haven of Guangzhou, we did actually go shopping a bit. However cool the shops looked though, the interior did disappoint.
The style was just missing a bit, and a lot was copied. I don’t mind the copying but I don’t want clothes with huge writing on them anyway. We eventually did find two belts and pants though.
The sales personnel were cute! We were of course the attraction of the night, as everyone else but the person serving us kept gossiping. I did understand that they thought I am American. Everyone who is white is American it seems…
The sales boys spoke a little bit of English and were curious about me and the bf. As part of their job, they have to clap their hands rhythmically in front of the shop to attract customers. When we entered, we always got a boy following us through the shop, making sure he doesn’t lose our trace.
Shangxiajiu Street
The next day was reserved for an excursion outside of Guangzhou. We first wanted to take the bus into the provinces, we were however far too exhausted from the heat and the continuous walking.
While browsing the tourist sites of Guangzhou, I found this small village called Xiaozhou Village (difficult to pronounceJ), which looked very scenic. Apparently it was a village from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and there were old houses built on small waterways and temples to be seen.
We took the subway to a huge island called “university town”. The whole island is reserved for university campuses – talk about investment into education! From there, we tried to find a taxi or bus which would take us on the other side of the river.
Xiaozhou Village
That was more difficult than I had imagined. No one knew the village, even though it is meant to be a prime Guangzhou tourist attraction! I think most of the people we met were internal Chinese migrants, hence they didn’t know much about the city.
I also found that that much alike Thais, Chinese people do not read maps. I had a map exactly indicating where to find the village but the taxi driver decided to call his friend, who could not help him instead.
Xiaozhou Village
We still arrived somehow and made our way to the ancient village. It was not quite as scenic as I had thought, mainly due to the constant building works, which are underway to gear up Xiaozhou Village as a tourist spot for the 2010 Asian Games.
Nevertheless, wandering around freely in this ancient village with small alleyways, canals and houses we found some magic spots and the hassle of getting there was well worth it!
Xiaozhou Village
We then took a taxi to the main tourist attraction of Guangzhou, Shamian Island. Shamian Island was an enclave for foreigners during colonial times and now has developed into a tourist centre, sightseeing spot full of galleries, souvenir shops and restaurants.
We walked the tree-lined streets and passed dozens of gorgeous colonial-style buildings to find ourselves next to the river, sipping a cocktail. We were not alone though. Apparently, Shamian Island is known for being a gay cruising spot!
View from Shamian Island
The style was just missing a bit, and a lot was copied. I don’t mind the copying but I don’t want clothes with huge writing on them anyway. We eventually did find two belts and pants though.
The sales personnel were cute! We were of course the attraction of the night, as everyone else but the person serving us kept gossiping. I did understand that they thought I am American. Everyone who is white is American it seems…
The sales boys spoke a little bit of English and were curious about me and the bf. As part of their job, they have to clap their hands rhythmically in front of the shop to attract customers. When we entered, we always got a boy following us through the shop, making sure he doesn’t lose our trace.
Shangxiajiu Street
The next day was reserved for an excursion outside of Guangzhou. We first wanted to take the bus into the provinces, we were however far too exhausted from the heat and the continuous walking.
While browsing the tourist sites of Guangzhou, I found this small village called Xiaozhou Village (difficult to pronounceJ), which looked very scenic. Apparently it was a village from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and there were old houses built on small waterways and temples to be seen.
We took the subway to a huge island called “university town”. The whole island is reserved for university campuses – talk about investment into education! From there, we tried to find a taxi or bus which would take us on the other side of the river.
Xiaozhou Village
That was more difficult than I had imagined. No one knew the village, even though it is meant to be a prime Guangzhou tourist attraction! I think most of the people we met were internal Chinese migrants, hence they didn’t know much about the city.
I also found that that much alike Thais, Chinese people do not read maps. I had a map exactly indicating where to find the village but the taxi driver decided to call his friend, who could not help him instead.
Xiaozhou Village
We still arrived somehow and made our way to the ancient village. It was not quite as scenic as I had thought, mainly due to the constant building works, which are underway to gear up Xiaozhou Village as a tourist spot for the 2010 Asian Games.
Nevertheless, wandering around freely in this ancient village with small alleyways, canals and houses we found some magic spots and the hassle of getting there was well worth it!
Xiaozhou Village
We then took a taxi to the main tourist attraction of Guangzhou, Shamian Island. Shamian Island was an enclave for foreigners during colonial times and now has developed into a tourist centre, sightseeing spot full of galleries, souvenir shops and restaurants.
We walked the tree-lined streets and passed dozens of gorgeous colonial-style buildings to find ourselves next to the river, sipping a cocktail. We were not alone though. Apparently, Shamian Island is known for being a gay cruising spot!
View from Shamian Island
We noticed that very quickly as quite a few people made distinct moves on us. However, the area just seemed to be a relaxing spot for couples and families, gay and straight, where one could enjoy the night views of the river.
Our tummies starting to rumble, we entered a fancy-looking restaurant and ordered baby pigeon soup and Lotus tea. It was a special and exquisite meal, and cheap too!
Tea House on Shamian Island
Exploring China - Guangzhou IV
The next day was meant to be the cultural day. Isnt it always amazing how many things you can do in cities? You travel there and at the end of the first day you think: “what am I going to do here for 5 days?”
When you are on your way back to the airport, you think: “Omg, why didn’t I see this/do that/go there?”
The bf and I walked to another park, where we encountered the Tourist office. This is worth mentioning. The Guangzhou tourist office is basically a desk with a frowning lady who does NOT speak English. They also have only one mini-brochure with some English content.
That told us a lot about tourism in this city: it’s mainly domestic, and if there are foreigners coming, they will be on package China tours. This should change with the Asian Games 2010 though.
We walked around in the biggest park of the city, Yuexiu Park, where we found Korean gardens, pagodas, museums, various trees, playgrounds which won national prizes and memorials.
Stadium in Yuexiu Park
After stumbling across the Dr Sun Yat-Sen memorial hall, where the bf lost “his lifeline, the umbrella” (I cite him) we continued to the temple area. Umbrella against the heat not the rain by the way!
Sun Yat-Sen Memorial to the left in the background and the Memorial Hall in the middle
Living in Bangkok, we are familiar with temples of course. In Guangzhou, there are a lot less temples, yet Liurong Temple with the Six Banyan Pagoda was impressive. It was a small haven of calm but revealed a lot about Chinese pragmatism and reality.
The visitors were only rich people – I could tell from their clothes. They are presumably the only people with a bit of time – the others are probably busy working in the factories.
Street near Liurong Temple
Six Banyan Pagoda
The cleaning ladies who swiped the floor did not like people standing in their way. They even pushed away praying people so they could clean the floor. This would be unimaginable in Thailand!
Cleaning lady doing her work without sentimentalities
We continued and wandered through markets and shop-houses, past 7elevens and giant new hospitals and finally ended up at the biggest teenie-shopping street of Guangzhou: Shangxiajiu Street.
Selling meat at the market
Selling fish at the market
Shangxiajiu Street at night
The street was alight with neon shop-signs and in the main square, thousands of people gathered to watch other people, hang out with their friends and watch CCTV on the huge screen. There were many cute guys around, but not so fashionable.
Imagine a Thai country-boy with a Chinese face, a girlfriend and without gel in the hair. Some of them however were dressing up a bit – and many were eyeing this odd couple, the Asian and foreign young men who looked so cool together ;)
When you are on your way back to the airport, you think: “Omg, why didn’t I see this/do that/go there?”
The bf and I walked to another park, where we encountered the Tourist office. This is worth mentioning. The Guangzhou tourist office is basically a desk with a frowning lady who does NOT speak English. They also have only one mini-brochure with some English content.
That told us a lot about tourism in this city: it’s mainly domestic, and if there are foreigners coming, they will be on package China tours. This should change with the Asian Games 2010 though.
We walked around in the biggest park of the city, Yuexiu Park, where we found Korean gardens, pagodas, museums, various trees, playgrounds which won national prizes and memorials.
Stadium in Yuexiu Park
After stumbling across the Dr Sun Yat-Sen memorial hall, where the bf lost “his lifeline, the umbrella” (I cite him) we continued to the temple area. Umbrella against the heat not the rain by the way!
Sun Yat-Sen Memorial to the left in the background and the Memorial Hall in the middle
Living in Bangkok, we are familiar with temples of course. In Guangzhou, there are a lot less temples, yet Liurong Temple with the Six Banyan Pagoda was impressive. It was a small haven of calm but revealed a lot about Chinese pragmatism and reality.
The visitors were only rich people – I could tell from their clothes. They are presumably the only people with a bit of time – the others are probably busy working in the factories.
Street near Liurong Temple
Six Banyan Pagoda
The cleaning ladies who swiped the floor did not like people standing in their way. They even pushed away praying people so they could clean the floor. This would be unimaginable in Thailand!
Cleaning lady doing her work without sentimentalities
We continued and wandered through markets and shop-houses, past 7elevens and giant new hospitals and finally ended up at the biggest teenie-shopping street of Guangzhou: Shangxiajiu Street.
Selling meat at the market
Selling fish at the market
Shangxiajiu Street at night
The street was alight with neon shop-signs and in the main square, thousands of people gathered to watch other people, hang out with their friends and watch CCTV on the huge screen. There were many cute guys around, but not so fashionable.
Imagine a Thai country-boy with a Chinese face, a girlfriend and without gel in the hair. Some of them however were dressing up a bit – and many were eyeing this odd couple, the Asian and foreign young men who looked so cool together ;)
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Exploring China – Guangzhou and Hong Kong III
The next day, we were off to Hong Kong for a day trip. I promised this to the bf, as he had never been before and wanted to see the famous harbour view, the narrow lanes, the skyscrapers and the glowing signs.
It only takes 2 hours to get to Hong Kong from Guangzhou by train, yet we only had about 9 hours in the city, way too short of course.
And there it was: the famous view. A narrow stretch of water and just behind, hundreds of skyscrapers hugging the impressive peaks of Hong Kong Island. It was a cloudy and windy day, and the ferry crossing was a bit rocky. The view however is absolutely stunning, no matter how many times you have seen it before.
Then we proceeded to a Dim Sum restaurant, which is an absolute institution in Hong Kong, but is still only frequented by locals. None of the thousands Western expats of Hong Kong was seen in this busy restaurant.
After having enjoyed the lunchtime experience of exquisite Dim Sum, totally stuffed with the best ingredients, delicious tea and heavy desserts, we took the tram to Victoria Mountain. The view was again, incredible, if a bit impeded by the clouds. 
Ordering water is apparently odd in China so they brought us two bottles of beer – a good ending to a long day! 
It only takes 2 hours to get to Hong Kong from Guangzhou by train, yet we only had about 9 hours in the city, way too short of course.
In front of the train station.
Eastern Train Station.
Eastern Train Station.
Having arrived at Hong Kong, we were looking for my friend (we studied together) who’s promised to wait for us at Hung Hom Railway Station. She wasn’t around and thanks to the bf, who was more eager to get into the city than me, we arranged to meet her later at Star Ferry Pier.
And there it was: the famous view. A narrow stretch of water and just behind, hundreds of skyscrapers hugging the impressive peaks of Hong Kong Island. It was a cloudy and windy day, and the ferry crossing was a bit rocky. The view however is absolutely stunning, no matter how many times you have seen it before.
Then we proceeded to a Dim Sum restaurant, which is an absolute institution in Hong Kong, but is still only frequented by locals. None of the thousands Western expats of Hong Kong was seen in this busy restaurant.
Dim Sum restaurant.
Serving tea.
I didn’t like the farang expats of Hong Kong. They are mostly working in finance I suppose and I didn’t like their “I-look-so-important-look” at all. They work in finance so in their work they don’t advance humanity by one inch, yet they get the highest paycheques – that’s not right!
After having enjoyed the lunchtime experience of exquisite Dim Sum, totally stuffed with the best ingredients, delicious tea and heavy desserts, we took the tram to Victoria Mountain. The view was again, incredible, if a bit impeded by the clouds.
After a bit of half-hearted shopping and a fun tram-ride, we were already on our way back to the Mainland again.
We arrived in our Soi late at night, but hungry. The restaurant next to the hotel served humongous mussels steamed with a mix of capsicum, butter and garlic, as well as crispy fried salt & pepper prawns.
Ordering water is apparently odd in China so they brought us two bottles of beer – a good ending to a long day!
Seafood - you choose, we kill and cook.
Exploring China – Guangzhou II
The second day was supposed to be our introduction day to Guangzhou. We read that Guangzhou was full of parks, which are graciously absent in Bangkok.
The next park was only 5 minutes walk for the hotel away. Surprisingly though, it cost 10 Yuan (50 baht) to enter. Every park in Guangzhou cost 10 yuan. That’s not so “communist”, we thought. But we soon saw why they charged…
The parks were so immaculately kept, so vast, full of flowers, lakes, trees and temples – beautiful! The first park we visited had some sort of palace on an island in the lake. In front, two newly-wed couples were posing for pictures.
White palace and couple in front! How cheesy - the pose!
The guy of one couple looked very femme and was more interested in looking at me and my boyfriend than at his new wife. I think they might not have a very happy wedding…
Anyway, China seems crazy about weddings! There were wedding picture agencies EVERYWHERE. The backgrounds don’t just include a white palace but also the Greek Islands (!) and colourful flowers. Look at the pictures and you wonder who is the man and who the woman…
How gay!!!
Then, we took the metro to the main shopping street. The metro is impressive. As new and modern as it can get. Guangzhou is going to host the Asian Games in 2010 and the whole city is one big development site.
We went to the main shopping street, Beijing Street. It was Sunday so there were many couples with their children playing, walking and shopping.
We realised quickly that Chinese people are enamoured with their children, and treat them like princes(ses). We also realised that the big majority of these children were boys.
China still upholds the “one-child policy” and boys are the preferred gender to become economically successful individuals who can support the family. Hence, a big gender gap is developing!
Beijing Street
Then, we reached the Pearl River area, where the oldest parts of the town are situated. We found a thousands of old shop-houses who sold everything from bamboo to underwear, belts and tobacco.
The underwear street
Old area with colonial buildings.
Later we were walking along the river, when we noticed that four uniformed men were “discreetly” following us. When we turned around, they were suddenly interested in looking at the advertisement posters…
The constant surveillance was the only negative point in visiting China. Not only were there people in uniform sitting in the neighbourhoods, but we were also followed by plain-clothed people. I am seriously wondering what the central government is afraid of.
I really admire China and that is why I took so many pictures. If I were a secret journalist I wouldn’t walk around with a huge DSLR camera around my neck. If China wants to develop, it needs to stop being paranoid and rather show off what it has!
When I looked at my pictures again I also saw so many CCTV cameras, controlling every neighbourhood. That however is no different from the UK for example. We do not know what happens with the material, both, in the UK and in China.
Men on bikes, a common sight in China.
The next park was only 5 minutes walk for the hotel away. Surprisingly though, it cost 10 Yuan (50 baht) to enter. Every park in Guangzhou cost 10 yuan. That’s not so “communist”, we thought. But we soon saw why they charged…
The parks were so immaculately kept, so vast, full of flowers, lakes, trees and temples – beautiful! The first park we visited had some sort of palace on an island in the lake. In front, two newly-wed couples were posing for pictures.
White palace and couple in front! How cheesy - the pose!
The guy of one couple looked very femme and was more interested in looking at me and my boyfriend than at his new wife. I think they might not have a very happy wedding…
Anyway, China seems crazy about weddings! There were wedding picture agencies EVERYWHERE. The backgrounds don’t just include a white palace but also the Greek Islands (!) and colourful flowers. Look at the pictures and you wonder who is the man and who the woman…
How gay!!!
Then, we took the metro to the main shopping street. The metro is impressive. As new and modern as it can get. Guangzhou is going to host the Asian Games in 2010 and the whole city is one big development site.
We went to the main shopping street, Beijing Street. It was Sunday so there were many couples with their children playing, walking and shopping.
We realised quickly that Chinese people are enamoured with their children, and treat them like princes(ses). We also realised that the big majority of these children were boys.
China still upholds the “one-child policy” and boys are the preferred gender to become economically successful individuals who can support the family. Hence, a big gender gap is developing!
Beijing Street
Then, we reached the Pearl River area, where the oldest parts of the town are situated. We found a thousands of old shop-houses who sold everything from bamboo to underwear, belts and tobacco.
The underwear street
Old area with colonial buildings.
Later we were walking along the river, when we noticed that four uniformed men were “discreetly” following us. When we turned around, they were suddenly interested in looking at the advertisement posters…
The constant surveillance was the only negative point in visiting China. Not only were there people in uniform sitting in the neighbourhoods, but we were also followed by plain-clothed people. I am seriously wondering what the central government is afraid of.
I really admire China and that is why I took so many pictures. If I were a secret journalist I wouldn’t walk around with a huge DSLR camera around my neck. If China wants to develop, it needs to stop being paranoid and rather show off what it has!
When I looked at my pictures again I also saw so many CCTV cameras, controlling every neighbourhood. That however is no different from the UK for example. We do not know what happens with the material, both, in the UK and in China.
Men on bikes, a common sight in China.
After visiting another immaculate park with a huge lake full of lotus flowers, we decided to visit the newer parts of Guangzhou.
It was evening and the teenies were out shopping in droves. They were curious about the farang with his huge camera and we got hundreds of inquisitive looks.
In one of the malls, we visited a café called “Starheart” – an obvious rip-off of a known American chain…overall I was actually shocked at how much gets copied in China. Converse, Adidas, Gucci, Rover, Starbucks – all ripped-off. Not in dark alleys, in shopping malls and streets!
The boy serving us at “Starheart” looked Thai. Anyway, there is a big mix of looks in China. There were tall pasty people, tiny dark people and everything in between. The only difference to the Thais were the clothes they wore.
“Starheart” boy wore baggy jeans and acted manly, like 99% of the guys we saw. He spoke a tiny bit of English and showed it off – cute!
Tianhe area
Friday, June 26, 2009
Exploring China - Guangzhou I
I got an anonymous complaint (why cant criticisers never have a name???) about the lack of content of my blog after two posts with sexy men.
“So this blog has turned into a "not so beautiful boys" display now?” he wrote. He even announced that he is leaving me!
I want to tell you a few things, mister anon:
1. You have NO idea how much WRITING a blog with some content actually takes
2. If you actually read my blog, you would know that I was on holidays, even that I was in China (where blogger.com is not accessible)
3. Leave my blog if you don’t like what you see. I don’t want demanding queens like you here.
For all the other people who haven’t left me: This blog is of course content-based, you all know that. However I felt that rather than leaving the blog alone for a week, I’d rather give you something to look at.
Yesterday night at 3:30 am, me and the boyfriend got back from our 5-day trip to the South of China. It was my birthday present for the bf and we had the choice of Guangzhou or Hanoi in Vietnam.
We chose Guangzhou because we both shared the dream to visit China for its history and culture but even more for its rapid development.
I didnt know much about Guangzhou before we boarded the plane. Normally I would buy a guidebook and pre-read for the sake of information but also to get myself in the mood.
There was no guidebook about Guangzhou or any that included a significant amount of information about the former “Canton”. I printed out the “wikitravel” article, which was actually fairly large and informative and off we went!
We arrived at the new Baiyun (white cloud) airport at about 11pm and everything was like Bangkok. It was hot, the airport new and huge, the taxis mean and I got annoyed. I didn’t fly 3 hours to find another Bangkok!
Then however, we found a bus which would take us to the city, which was cheap and convenient. The attendant lady showed us where to get off and we got a taxi for the short hop to our hotel.
Having arrived at night, we were left hungry and got some snacks from 7eleven (they do have these in China!)
Our soi!
The first steps out of the hotel, and we were in a bustling street full of roadside BBQ’s with bare-chested men selling seafood, restaurants, touts offering us prostitutes (do we look like we f*ck women???) etc. it looked like fun!
“So this blog has turned into a "not so beautiful boys" display now?” he wrote. He even announced that he is leaving me!
I want to tell you a few things, mister anon:
1. You have NO idea how much WRITING a blog with some content actually takes
2. If you actually read my blog, you would know that I was on holidays, even that I was in China (where blogger.com is not accessible)
3. Leave my blog if you don’t like what you see. I don’t want demanding queens like you here.
For all the other people who haven’t left me: This blog is of course content-based, you all know that. However I felt that rather than leaving the blog alone for a week, I’d rather give you something to look at.
Yesterday night at 3:30 am, me and the boyfriend got back from our 5-day trip to the South of China. It was my birthday present for the bf and we had the choice of Guangzhou or Hanoi in Vietnam.
We chose Guangzhou because we both shared the dream to visit China for its history and culture but even more for its rapid development.
I didnt know much about Guangzhou before we boarded the plane. Normally I would buy a guidebook and pre-read for the sake of information but also to get myself in the mood.
There was no guidebook about Guangzhou or any that included a significant amount of information about the former “Canton”. I printed out the “wikitravel” article, which was actually fairly large and informative and off we went!
We arrived at the new Baiyun (white cloud) airport at about 11pm and everything was like Bangkok. It was hot, the airport new and huge, the taxis mean and I got annoyed. I didn’t fly 3 hours to find another Bangkok!
Then however, we found a bus which would take us to the city, which was cheap and convenient. The attendant lady showed us where to get off and we got a taxi for the short hop to our hotel.
Having arrived at night, we were left hungry and got some snacks from 7eleven (they do have these in China!)
Our soi!
The first steps out of the hotel, and we were in a bustling street full of roadside BBQ’s with bare-chested men selling seafood, restaurants, touts offering us prostitutes (do we look like we f*ck women???) etc. it looked like fun!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
pinoy manliness
Sometimes I wonder why we are all in Thailand... ;)
No seriously, I am really amazed by these Pinoy men. They have a manliness and pride that I have never seen in Thailand. Machismo does have its good sides after all! Maybe I should go and see again sometime?
Nice body, no?
Gracias again to manilaguy25!
No seriously, I am really amazed by these Pinoy men. They have a manliness and pride that I have never seen in Thailand. Machismo does have its good sides after all! Maybe I should go and see again sometime?
Nice body, no?
Gracias again to manilaguy25!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Saturday, June 20, 2009
A clothed underwear model
This man's name is Joey Beato and he was apparently in the finals of an undewear competition for the filipino underwear brand Bench. I myself own a pair of Bench too by the way:)
Thanks to manilaguy25 for the photos!
In this picture, I want to pinch Joey's tiny layer of bacon around his tummy. CUTE!
Joey from another angle. Note the upper arms. yum!!! can I touch?:)
Thanks to manilaguy25 for the photos!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
one night, two lives
I have had it with the moneyboy topic for the moment... I think it's not my USP (unique selling point, anyone studied business too?)lets move back to my life, that's more interesting...
celebrating the beauty of pinoys again.
Today was an eventful day for me. Actually I am just really exhausted and for some reason understood no Thai whatsoever today. Like it escaped me. Writing a thesis requires a really strong character, I reckon.
You have no satisfaction whatsoever for a few months until you finish that thing. I finished 2 out of 3 chapters and have written 25,000 words in a bit more than two months.
After this thesis, another one for my Thai degree...why am I doing this, I am asking myself every day...I guess I'll never find out:)
Now everyone listen: this is the best-looking guy I ever featured on my blog. He studies at UP...if anyone knows him...tell him I love him long time.
Tonight I realised how layered my identity and behaviours have become. That sounds dramatic, I know.
Among farangs living here in Thailand, there are a few different expat groups such as the young professionals, the nana/silom/surawong/asoke love-birds, the old professionals, the backpackers etc...and then there are the ones that dont interact with other farangs.
I am one of them. Whether that's good or bad, I dont know. I know exactly one farang in Thailand, blogger bkkdreamer. Since tonight, I know two.
I met a loyal reader from a mountainous country in Europe today in the Sukhumvit area. I have never really been to Sukhumvit but it looks interesting. We even managed to walk through Soi Cowboy!!
Anyway, my new friend from mountainous farangland has a huge circle of farang friends here, and they all seem smart, achievers, educated, interesting...in short, I am jealous!
We talked about his home country, Thailand and many other places and it seemed to me that we see things very much the same way...I had suddenly become really "farang"...and I felt confused but also quite free doing that.
No need for considerations, no need to dumb down my English, no need to talk to gossip, just talk. How relieving!
I cannot do this with most Thais, it's impossible...the conversations operate on a different level, the way we think is really totally different.
*melt* yes you dont have to look into my eyes so deeply...you have disarmed me already:)
I want to elaborate more on this sometime. For now I give you a small example.
We have virus problems at university (computer, not swine flu:). The secretary girl had her anti-virus problem running when I arrived this morning. There were many red things coming up saying she has viruses.
She asked me: What should I do? I said, let the programme delete these files for you. She said: "uiiiiiiiii, na glua!!!" ohhhhh, scare. How can I close this window, I am scared of all the red...
Think what you want...
can we study together?:)
After my meeting in Sukhumvit playing the good ole farang bb, I went to badminton.
This time, none of my friends came. We were about 10 men and women between 22 and nearly 60, all Thais, except me. None of these people speak any English.
I assumed the role of the Thai bb. We had fun, we talked about bananas, about work, about study, about badminton and of course, about men. A girl asked me which one of the men I like.
I would not be surprised if the one I chose knows it already by now...
I think I should be proud of myself!
I can really integrate well with many different people I think! I am also happy I am starting to branch out to foreigners now. There's only so much chit-chat and gossip you can do...:)
celebrating the beauty of pinoys again.
Today was an eventful day for me. Actually I am just really exhausted and for some reason understood no Thai whatsoever today. Like it escaped me. Writing a thesis requires a really strong character, I reckon.
You have no satisfaction whatsoever for a few months until you finish that thing. I finished 2 out of 3 chapters and have written 25,000 words in a bit more than two months.
After this thesis, another one for my Thai degree...why am I doing this, I am asking myself every day...I guess I'll never find out:)
Now everyone listen: this is the best-looking guy I ever featured on my blog. He studies at UP...if anyone knows him...tell him I love him long time.
Tonight I realised how layered my identity and behaviours have become. That sounds dramatic, I know.
Among farangs living here in Thailand, there are a few different expat groups such as the young professionals, the nana/silom/surawong/asoke love-birds, the old professionals, the backpackers etc...and then there are the ones that dont interact with other farangs.
I am one of them. Whether that's good or bad, I dont know. I know exactly one farang in Thailand, blogger bkkdreamer. Since tonight, I know two.
I met a loyal reader from a mountainous country in Europe today in the Sukhumvit area. I have never really been to Sukhumvit but it looks interesting. We even managed to walk through Soi Cowboy!!
Anyway, my new friend from mountainous farangland has a huge circle of farang friends here, and they all seem smart, achievers, educated, interesting...in short, I am jealous!
We talked about his home country, Thailand and many other places and it seemed to me that we see things very much the same way...I had suddenly become really "farang"...and I felt confused but also quite free doing that.
No need for considerations, no need to dumb down my English, no need to talk to gossip, just talk. How relieving!
I cannot do this with most Thais, it's impossible...the conversations operate on a different level, the way we think is really totally different.
*melt* yes you dont have to look into my eyes so deeply...you have disarmed me already:)
I want to elaborate more on this sometime. For now I give you a small example.
We have virus problems at university (computer, not swine flu:). The secretary girl had her anti-virus problem running when I arrived this morning. There were many red things coming up saying she has viruses.
She asked me: What should I do? I said, let the programme delete these files for you. She said: "uiiiiiiiii, na glua!!!" ohhhhh, scare. How can I close this window, I am scared of all the red...
Think what you want...
can we study together?:)
After my meeting in Sukhumvit playing the good ole farang bb, I went to badminton.
This time, none of my friends came. We were about 10 men and women between 22 and nearly 60, all Thais, except me. None of these people speak any English.
I assumed the role of the Thai bb. We had fun, we talked about bananas, about work, about study, about badminton and of course, about men. A girl asked me which one of the men I like.
I would not be surprised if the one I chose knows it already by now...
I think I should be proud of myself!
I can really integrate well with many different people I think! I am also happy I am starting to branch out to foreigners now. There's only so much chit-chat and gossip you can do...:)
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Badminton update, stressed BB and Australian jokes
Since there was no badminton on Thursday and Saturday, I went today. Sadly, the guy I like didnt come today. I miss him:)
He's very cheerful and has the "taking care" mentality. When he called me, he asked if I eat a lot in the evening. I should eat less in the evening, he suggested, because it's not healthy.
This time though, my friend brought another farang friend from France. And I was positively surprised. He was a decent and nice guy! If you read this, Mister Lyon, you're a nice guy, I hope you come again!!!
On the way back from badminton, I had a cute taxi driver. Chinese eyes and the typical mullet-style Thai hair. I think he was straight though, as he said nothing more than "krub". He wore a proper white shirt and swimming shorts like the guy above in the picture. WEIRD!!!
I lost all my credit though (if I ever had any) when I tried to pay 54 baht with a 500-baht note. I said "kot tot" like 10 times but he didnt react.
This is my advice for you guys: if you take a taxi in Bangkok at night, you may find cute boys driving, but do not pay them with 500 baht, they are not bar-boys:p
Cute butt!!!
I am quite stressed! On saturday, I am going to Guangzhou with my bf. It's his birthday on Saturday and this trip is my gift for him.
I gave him the choice: check Air Asia and tell me what you like. We pinned it down to Hanoi versus Guangzhou. Guangzhou won.
I have never been to China before so I cant wait to see China. Real urban China. We will also go to Hong Kong for a day, since the bf wants to see Victoria Harbour etc.
I really like this guy!!!
Just after we come back next week, I will fly to New Zealand to work with my old professor for more than 6 weeks....bitchofbangkok will become kiwibitch. Lets see if I can report anything else but that it's beautiful, quiet and cold:)
YES, that's a sexy pose!!!
I got an email from my former flatmate. We shared a home in New Zealand in 2004 and discovered that we grew up only 40 minutes away from each other, in different faranglands though!
The email listed silly questions asked on the Australian Tourism Website and the (supposedly) real answers from the staff. I am not sure they are real, we all know that Aussies like to have a bit of a yarn, yeah?
For all non-Australians, a yarn is in essence a true story which is totally blown up for the sake of impressing others and just having a bit of fun. Best enjoyed having a barbie and drinking a (few) Cascade beer(s). Am I right?
Here we go, a few examples:
Q: Does it ever get windy in Australia ? I have never seen it rain on TV, how do the plants grow? ( UK ).
A: We import all plants fully grown and then just sit around watching them die.
Q: Which direction is North in Australia ? ( USA )
A: Face south and then turn 180 degrees. Contact us when you get here and we'll send the rest of the directions.
Q: Can I bring cutlery into Australia ? ( UK )
A: Why? Just use your fingers like we do.
Q: Are there supermarkets in Sydney and is milk available all year round? ( Germany )
A: No, we are a peaceful civilization of vegan hunter/gatherers.Milk is illegal.
Q: Do you celebrate Christmas in Australia ? ( France )
A: Only at Christmas.
Q: Will I be able to speak English most places I go? ( INDIA )
A: Yes, but you'll have to learn it first.
Q: I was in Australia in 1969 on R+R, and I want to contact the Girl I dated while I was staying in Kings Cross*. Can you help? ( USA )
A: Yes, and you will still have to pay her by the hour..
And then finally, the best:
Q: Can you tell me the regions in Tasmania where the female population is smaller than the male population? ( Italy )
A: Yes, gay night clubs.
I hope you had a good laugh!
Picture 3 and 4 are taken from http://www.irkphotography.com/gallery-one/terrence-kuala-lumpur/ the pictures remain property of the owner.
He's very cheerful and has the "taking care" mentality. When he called me, he asked if I eat a lot in the evening. I should eat less in the evening, he suggested, because it's not healthy.
This time though, my friend brought another farang friend from France. And I was positively surprised. He was a decent and nice guy! If you read this, Mister Lyon, you're a nice guy, I hope you come again!!!
On the way back from badminton, I had a cute taxi driver. Chinese eyes and the typical mullet-style Thai hair. I think he was straight though, as he said nothing more than "krub". He wore a proper white shirt and swimming shorts like the guy above in the picture. WEIRD!!!
I lost all my credit though (if I ever had any) when I tried to pay 54 baht with a 500-baht note. I said "kot tot" like 10 times but he didnt react.
This is my advice for you guys: if you take a taxi in Bangkok at night, you may find cute boys driving, but do not pay them with 500 baht, they are not bar-boys:p
Cute butt!!!
I am quite stressed! On saturday, I am going to Guangzhou with my bf. It's his birthday on Saturday and this trip is my gift for him.
I gave him the choice: check Air Asia and tell me what you like. We pinned it down to Hanoi versus Guangzhou. Guangzhou won.
I have never been to China before so I cant wait to see China. Real urban China. We will also go to Hong Kong for a day, since the bf wants to see Victoria Harbour etc.
I really like this guy!!!
Just after we come back next week, I will fly to New Zealand to work with my old professor for more than 6 weeks....bitchofbangkok will become kiwibitch. Lets see if I can report anything else but that it's beautiful, quiet and cold:)
YES, that's a sexy pose!!!
I got an email from my former flatmate. We shared a home in New Zealand in 2004 and discovered that we grew up only 40 minutes away from each other, in different faranglands though!
The email listed silly questions asked on the Australian Tourism Website and the (supposedly) real answers from the staff. I am not sure they are real, we all know that Aussies like to have a bit of a yarn, yeah?
For all non-Australians, a yarn is in essence a true story which is totally blown up for the sake of impressing others and just having a bit of fun. Best enjoyed having a barbie and drinking a (few) Cascade beer(s). Am I right?
Here we go, a few examples:
Q: Does it ever get windy in Australia ? I have never seen it rain on TV, how do the plants grow? ( UK ).
A: We import all plants fully grown and then just sit around watching them die.
Q: Which direction is North in Australia ? ( USA )
A: Face south and then turn 180 degrees. Contact us when you get here and we'll send the rest of the directions.
Q: Can I bring cutlery into Australia ? ( UK )
A: Why? Just use your fingers like we do.
Q: Are there supermarkets in Sydney and is milk available all year round? ( Germany )
A: No, we are a peaceful civilization of vegan hunter/gatherers.Milk is illegal.
Q: Do you celebrate Christmas in Australia ? ( France )
A: Only at Christmas.
Q: Will I be able to speak English most places I go? ( INDIA )
A: Yes, but you'll have to learn it first.
Q: I was in Australia in 1969 on R+R, and I want to contact the Girl I dated while I was staying in Kings Cross*. Can you help? ( USA )
A: Yes, and you will still have to pay her by the hour..
And then finally, the best:
Q: Can you tell me the regions in Tasmania where the female population is smaller than the male population? ( Italy )
A: Yes, gay night clubs.
I hope you had a good laugh!
Picture 3 and 4 are taken from http://www.irkphotography.com/gallery-one/terrence-kuala-lumpur/ the pictures remain property of the owner.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
i HEART bkk - for its fruits
In Farangland, mums always have to tell their boys and girls that they should eat a lot of fruit. Where I grew up, fruit is something like a swear word.
You are somehow banished to eat fruit. No chocolate, no biscuits, you have to eat fruits. And if you just feel like opening up that bag of chips/crisps, mum will be there and say: you should rather eat an apple.
Apples must be every farangland kids' nemesis. They often dont taste like much if they are not sour like hell and I get a bloody mouth from eating them (their skin cuts my gums).
what's the alternative? A banana imported from Costa Rica. Not bad...An Orange from Spain? Too big a mess. A kiwifruit? Great, but expensive!!!
Only around Christmas time, I enjoyed fruits because fresh mandarins could be found in the supermarket in abundance. Mix these with chocolates, biscuits (there we go again) and I can smell and taste Christmas.
In Thailand, things are obviously different. I do eat a biscuit or two, or a bit of chocolate, but very rarely. This is the land of plenty. Nearly every fruit can be had here, and they are GOOOOOD!
Usually, I stock at least 3 types at home, and rather eat fruits for breakfast than bread, butter and jam.
I took pictures of the fruit in my fridge.
First, pomelo. I think this is the fruit I eat the most. It's like a bigger grapefruit, only not bitter. Its little bits do not disintegrate easily, so you can just break off bits. It tastes like a meaty orange, but less sweet and juicy.
Sorry this is not a good example...it got a bit warm earlier on.
The second one. Everyone knows the mango of course. Everyone who's been to Thailand knows how a mango can taste. Heavenly! Now there isnt just one sort of mango, there are dozens. Last week, I even bought a round one!!!
The most common type of mango at the moment
And now we are entering royal territory. There is a title for the king and the queen of fruits. Strangely, I love the queen just that bit better than the king. (It's the other way around in bed;)
The king is durian. An infamous fruit. In the Singapore taxis there is a sign: durian not allowed. That's because of its smell!
The taste is more important though. Firstly I was surprised. It's greasy like no other fruit. And the taste, I cant describe it - but try. Mix white wine, cabbage, nuts but sweet! A godly fruit!
A big bite of durian. The whole fruit is huge and thorny
Then, the queen, and my favourite fruit of all. Strangely, it's also the ugliest.
But when you open up a mangosteen, the rind purple-red and the inner flesh shiny white, then you know something special awaits you.
Describing the taste is difficult again. It's so fresh and clear, sweat, fragrant, perfumed. The last time I ate some I just moaned and told the bf that he has to fight hard to give me a better orgasm than this little ugly fruit:)
Mangosteen, ugly but delicious
You are somehow banished to eat fruit. No chocolate, no biscuits, you have to eat fruits. And if you just feel like opening up that bag of chips/crisps, mum will be there and say: you should rather eat an apple.
Apples must be every farangland kids' nemesis. They often dont taste like much if they are not sour like hell and I get a bloody mouth from eating them (their skin cuts my gums).
what's the alternative? A banana imported from Costa Rica. Not bad...An Orange from Spain? Too big a mess. A kiwifruit? Great, but expensive!!!
Only around Christmas time, I enjoyed fruits because fresh mandarins could be found in the supermarket in abundance. Mix these with chocolates, biscuits (there we go again) and I can smell and taste Christmas.
In Thailand, things are obviously different. I do eat a biscuit or two, or a bit of chocolate, but very rarely. This is the land of plenty. Nearly every fruit can be had here, and they are GOOOOOD!
Usually, I stock at least 3 types at home, and rather eat fruits for breakfast than bread, butter and jam.
I took pictures of the fruit in my fridge.
First, pomelo. I think this is the fruit I eat the most. It's like a bigger grapefruit, only not bitter. Its little bits do not disintegrate easily, so you can just break off bits. It tastes like a meaty orange, but less sweet and juicy.
Sorry this is not a good example...it got a bit warm earlier on.
The second one. Everyone knows the mango of course. Everyone who's been to Thailand knows how a mango can taste. Heavenly! Now there isnt just one sort of mango, there are dozens. Last week, I even bought a round one!!!
The most common type of mango at the moment
And now we are entering royal territory. There is a title for the king and the queen of fruits. Strangely, I love the queen just that bit better than the king. (It's the other way around in bed;)
The king is durian. An infamous fruit. In the Singapore taxis there is a sign: durian not allowed. That's because of its smell!
The taste is more important though. Firstly I was surprised. It's greasy like no other fruit. And the taste, I cant describe it - but try. Mix white wine, cabbage, nuts but sweet! A godly fruit!
A big bite of durian. The whole fruit is huge and thorny
Then, the queen, and my favourite fruit of all. Strangely, it's also the ugliest.
But when you open up a mangosteen, the rind purple-red and the inner flesh shiny white, then you know something special awaits you.
Describing the taste is difficult again. It's so fresh and clear, sweat, fragrant, perfumed. The last time I ate some I just moaned and told the bf that he has to fight hard to give me a better orgasm than this little ugly fruit:)
Mangosteen, ugly but delicious
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Blog under construction
As recent visitors might have noticed, a few things have changed on this blog. I felt the changes were overdue and bitchofbangkok.blogspot.com deserved an update.
It's however not a complete overhaul, more like a face-lifting. Not botox however, the blog is not that old yet:)
So what's new so far? Obvsiouly, the colours and the banner. The last banner was the view from my old condo, but I dont live there anymore. The new banner is my current view.
"my stories from the city of angels, my love for bangkok, my boyfriend and me, my trips, my opinions."
Regarding the colours, I felt that pink was fun and different, but grey, orange and blue is much classier but still beautiful. It's also more reader-friendly and your eyes will hurt less I think.
I have also made the main column much wider, so you dont have to scroll so far and more of the page gets used. Looks good, no?
Nearly 3 hours of my Saturday afternoon went into re-organising the labels. I have reduced them to only 11.
Most are self-explanatory. E.g. under "gay stories", you can find anectdotes and funny moments I encounter with gays.
Under "travels" you can read about my trips of course. This will ALWAYS include my own pictures.
Clicking "the beauty of men" will get you to a few picture series of men, which we all love, dont we?
I have also included two special cateories: "korea and me" because I do have a bit of an interest in Korea, and "i HEART bkk", which is my label for confessions of love for Bangkok.
The changes are not at all finished yet, I will re-organise and -assess my links and add more content. I will also re-work all the entries, so they are more appealing to read. I might even include a third column. You will see.
In its essence however, the blog is the same. I have made it much more pleasing to the eyes and easier to use though.
It's however not a complete overhaul, more like a face-lifting. Not botox however, the blog is not that old yet:)
So what's new so far? Obvsiouly, the colours and the banner. The last banner was the view from my old condo, but I dont live there anymore. The new banner is my current view.
Just like fellow blogger bkkdreamer, I also felt that my header subtitle needs redoing. My circumstances have changed a bit since the beginning of the blog and the scope of the blog has widened too.
"my stories from the city of angels, my love for bangkok, my boyfriend and me, my trips, my opinions."
Regarding the colours, I felt that pink was fun and different, but grey, orange and blue is much classier but still beautiful. It's also more reader-friendly and your eyes will hurt less I think.
I have also made the main column much wider, so you dont have to scroll so far and more of the page gets used. Looks good, no?
Nearly 3 hours of my Saturday afternoon went into re-organising the labels. I have reduced them to only 11.
Most are self-explanatory. E.g. under "gay stories", you can find anectdotes and funny moments I encounter with gays.
Under "travels" you can read about my trips of course. This will ALWAYS include my own pictures.
Clicking "the beauty of men" will get you to a few picture series of men, which we all love, dont we?
I have also included two special cateories: "korea and me" because I do have a bit of an interest in Korea, and "i HEART bkk", which is my label for confessions of love for Bangkok.
The changes are not at all finished yet, I will re-organise and -assess my links and add more content. I will also re-work all the entries, so they are more appealing to read. I might even include a third column. You will see.
In its essence however, the blog is the same. I have made it much more pleasing to the eyes and easier to use though.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Athens and Bangkok
When we fondly think of moments, special places, a special athmosphere, music often plays an important part.
A few years ago, I spent a week in Athens. After the week passed, I had to admit that I loved Athens. I actually think Athens is not too dissimilar from Bangkok!
Why did I love Athens? It was not a very pretty city at all...
Yet, this city was alive! People were out during the day and especially at night. They went out drinking, walking and they were loud. The typical Mediterranean lifestyle I suppose.
There was more to this place though. First, there were the dogs. Stray dogs, like in Bangkok. They were aggressive though, not like the lazy soi dogs in BKK.
The city was also incredibly dirty. Rubbish everywhere, homeless people and many chaotic building sites, much like Bangkok in fact.
Then, the culture. Greece, just like Thailand is at the crossroads of culture. I dont want to give history lessons here (others can do that for me if they wish) but I could feel a particular mix of cultures.
When I went to a market, it could have been Lebanon, Libya or Sicily...but it was Athens.
The cityscape was similar too at times. Whenever I drive down Rama IV from Hua Lampong train station towards Si Phraya, I feel reminded of the big road up from the coast into the city in Athens...many lanes, a lot of traffic, a lot of chaos, many buses, dirty façades of shop houses...
And then there was the music. The moment which I will forever keep in my mind is driving down from the city to our hotel on the coast in a taxi. The open windows let us feel the warm evening breeze on our skin and the music playing in the taxi gave this scene a romantic touch.
I remember this moment because just before, I was listening to my favourite look tung (Thai country music) singer Tai Oratai. There's a song which reminded me of the Greek taxi song, and suddenly I felt like I was there in that taxi driving down the Greek highway three years ago.
I dont know the song that was played in that taxi, but I remember the feeling, and that's what's the same when listening to Tai Oratai. Both styles are extremely melancholic, dramatic and sad.
At the airport in Athens, I randomly bought a CD by a Greek singer, named Natassa Theodoridou, and luckily, the style matched the taxi song! I'll give a link to one of her songs.
A few years ago, I spent a week in Athens. After the week passed, I had to admit that I loved Athens. I actually think Athens is not too dissimilar from Bangkok!
Why did I love Athens? It was not a very pretty city at all...
Yet, this city was alive! People were out during the day and especially at night. They went out drinking, walking and they were loud. The typical Mediterranean lifestyle I suppose.
There was more to this place though. First, there were the dogs. Stray dogs, like in Bangkok. They were aggressive though, not like the lazy soi dogs in BKK.
The city was also incredibly dirty. Rubbish everywhere, homeless people and many chaotic building sites, much like Bangkok in fact.
Then, the culture. Greece, just like Thailand is at the crossroads of culture. I dont want to give history lessons here (others can do that for me if they wish) but I could feel a particular mix of cultures.
When I went to a market, it could have been Lebanon, Libya or Sicily...but it was Athens.
The cityscape was similar too at times. Whenever I drive down Rama IV from Hua Lampong train station towards Si Phraya, I feel reminded of the big road up from the coast into the city in Athens...many lanes, a lot of traffic, a lot of chaos, many buses, dirty façades of shop houses...
And then there was the music. The moment which I will forever keep in my mind is driving down from the city to our hotel on the coast in a taxi. The open windows let us feel the warm evening breeze on our skin and the music playing in the taxi gave this scene a romantic touch.
I remember this moment because just before, I was listening to my favourite look tung (Thai country music) singer Tai Oratai. There's a song which reminded me of the Greek taxi song, and suddenly I felt like I was there in that taxi driving down the Greek highway three years ago.
I dont know the song that was played in that taxi, but I remember the feeling, and that's what's the same when listening to Tai Oratai. Both styles are extremely melancholic, dramatic and sad.
At the airport in Athens, I randomly bought a CD by a Greek singer, named Natassa Theodoridou, and luckily, the style matched the taxi song! I'll give a link to one of her songs.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Your friend dates your ex...
Hello, my name is Ivan Porcalla
How could so many gay-related things happen, if I live happily in a relationship, dont go out to party much and dont go on dates with boys...?
But this is Bangkok, so gays are everywhere. And if you tell them that you have a boyfriend already, they will a)think you are still fuckable and b)will try to flirt you even more to win the competition...
I am not complaining though, it's fun to flirt a little bit. There are four different stories worth updating...crazy!
1. the condo technician. he is on camfrog as we speak, and was basically naked as I walked past his office before as I came home. I have the feeling he is giving a show to the public...
he also asked me earlier this week to come and watch porn with him. and he came to look for me when I was in the shower after a late-night swim...spooky stuff! I smelled the cigarette smoke but didnt hear him...
2. the badminton policeman. he is after all a POST man...I joined badminton last weekend even though my friend wasnt coming. That made it a lot more fun though.
I talked a lot to the postman and I must admit that I like him just a little big. He's a sweet guy. He complained that he doesnt have my telephone number, so I guess I had to give it...
3. The "classmate". Well he is in the new class anyway...I have added him on facebook, where I can see him ski in America and pose in Japan and on dinners at the British Embassy. On his facebook, he has about 400 friends, all Thai.
Am I impressed? No, I dont like hi-so people. Down to earth is the way to go!!!
I met him again on the toilet as he was putting on make-up on his face. I went into the cubicle and he just continued talking to me. That was annoying because I couldnt .... empty my bladder...
4. The real classmate, the guy I mentioned before when I wrote about Thais and who impresses me. He impresses me. Smart guy, very considerate, perfect English.
We are very close friends. He could be something like a "chef's recommendation."
Today we had lunch together at university, when he told me: "bb I have to tell you something, I dated someone you dated too."
I knew who it was. The hi-so guy whom I met twice back in September 08. He took me out to dinner, massaged me with oil and took me out for lunch again later. Then, I stopped contact because he was rude.
My classmate was so jealous of me at the time, so I gave him hi-so-guy's phone number - for fun. Classmate took it seriously and they started dating, only recently apparently.
The hi-so guy wanted to be boyfriends with my classmate even, but he refused and they stopped contact.
How odd...I mean normally you dont date your friend's ex-dates...I dont quite mind so much but I find it odd that me, as a farang, brought two Thais together.
All in all I really dont mind, although my classmate could have spared me the details: "Isnt his body perfect?" He asked. I grumbled.
p.s. I now have a second supplier for pictures. He is Filipino and has a photography blog: http://manilaguy25.multiply.com/ visit him, it's absolutely worth it!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Amphawa in the moonlight
Sunday, and it's time for another day-trip. I was a big busy and didnt feel like deciding, so I gave the boyfriend three options: floating market in Amphawa, explore Bangkok or a nosedive to Pattaya.
My darling made the right choice: Amphawa it is. The good news arrived last night from my Thai classmate: the floating market apparently only starts to get into drive after 4pm!
Wonderful, because from Thai markets I am more used to 4AM...So we got up late, after an "eventful" night, and took the minivan to Samut Songkhram town.
As the more experienced Bangkokians among you might know, there are a few small provinces around Bangkok, which are still kind of part of greater Bangkok, but do not form part of Bangkok province anymore.
To the south, there are the three "Samuts", all straddling the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, yet far from having beautiful beaches of course... Samut Prakan, Samut Sakorn and Samut Songkhram are awash with factories, fruit plantations and shrimp farms.
According to my dictionary, Samut means "sea"...I suppose it makes sense!
Anyway, we arrived at Samut Songkhram town and had lunch. Delicious "tot man" (fish
cakes), one of my favourite dishes in Thai cuisine, and some satay sticks.
Then, we wandered around the town a bit, when we discovered the "train market". It's literally a market on the rails of the train. Of course, just as we arrived, the train came.
The vendors hastily moved away, leaving the food next to the tracks. The picture describes is better than my words:)
Train approaching, clearing the durians only by and inch or so
It was now afternoon, and we wanted to see the beach, or whatever there is right on the coast. We took a songteaw (loyal readers will know I love them!) to Don Hoi Lot, where we quickly discovered that we were not alone at all!
There were literally hundreds of Thai families picknicking on rented plastic mats, singing songs, drinking whisky, eating food and eyeing the farang and the "Japanese". There was a group of cute young fags who ogled us beyond belief!
I hear you say: he gets all this attention again. That's not because I am as handsome as Brad Pitt. That's because I go to places where there are no farang. In Silom, I wouldnt get ogled and flirted...
The "beach" in Don Hoi Lot
My darling made the right choice: Amphawa it is. The good news arrived last night from my Thai classmate: the floating market apparently only starts to get into drive after 4pm!
Wonderful, because from Thai markets I am more used to 4AM...So we got up late, after an "eventful" night, and took the minivan to Samut Songkhram town.
As the more experienced Bangkokians among you might know, there are a few small provinces around Bangkok, which are still kind of part of greater Bangkok, but do not form part of Bangkok province anymore.
To the south, there are the three "Samuts", all straddling the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, yet far from having beautiful beaches of course... Samut Prakan, Samut Sakorn and Samut Songkhram are awash with factories, fruit plantations and shrimp farms.
According to my dictionary, Samut means "sea"...I suppose it makes sense!
Anyway, we arrived at Samut Songkhram town and had lunch. Delicious "tot man" (fish
cakes), one of my favourite dishes in Thai cuisine, and some satay sticks.
YUMMY!
Then, we wandered around the town a bit, when we discovered the "train market". It's literally a market on the rails of the train. Of course, just as we arrived, the train came.
The vendors hastily moved away, leaving the food next to the tracks. The picture describes is better than my words:)
Train approaching, clearing the durians only by and inch or so
It was now afternoon, and we wanted to see the beach, or whatever there is right on the coast. We took a songteaw (loyal readers will know I love them!) to Don Hoi Lot, where we quickly discovered that we were not alone at all!
There were literally hundreds of Thai families picknicking on rented plastic mats, singing songs, drinking whisky, eating food and eyeing the farang and the "Japanese". There was a group of cute young fags who ogled us beyond belief!
I hear you say: he gets all this attention again. That's not because I am as handsome as Brad Pitt. That's because I go to places where there are no farang. In Silom, I wouldnt get ogled and flirted...
The "beach" in Don Hoi Lot
So, on with the story. This was actually not really a beach. Just a park which ended in the sea. The rest of the coast was covered wtih mangroves, so there is no sand. Unfortunately we didnt have time for a boat ride to the mangroves.
On we went to Amphawa floating market, the main destination of the trip. Amphawa is a major weekend destination for Bangkokians and that, we realised very quickly. It's a floating market where the food is prepared on the boat, while you eat it on the embankment. Kind of odd, I thought...
Amphawa floating market
The scene was fantastic though, with so many boats on the canal, people walking on the narrow walkways to the left and right of the canal, and foodstands everywhere.
Walking along the canal, we really enjoyed ourselves. This was Thailand at its best, lively, colourful, loud (karaoke music), yummy (the food), a festival for the senses.
After seing so many boats, we decided to join a tour. 1 hour for 60 baht, how cheap is that? We glided through the market, passed some Wats and suddenly found ourselves in the midst of mangrove forests and palm trees, interrupted by a few guesthouses and restaurants.
Walking along the canal, we really enjoyed ourselves. This was Thailand at its best, lively, colourful, loud (karaoke music), yummy (the food), a festival for the senses.
After seing so many boats, we decided to join a tour. 1 hour for 60 baht, how cheap is that? We glided through the market, passed some Wats and suddenly found ourselves in the midst of mangrove forests and palm trees, interrupted by a few guesthouses and restaurants.
Suddenly, the moon in its full glory appeared just above the river and gave us a fantastic sight. It was, as the boyfriend said, like in a dream, or like in a movie. He was right, it was a very romantic and relaxing moment.
Romantic!
Then, we approached the shore and everyone looked into the dark bushes. I wondered why but not for long, because in the bushes, hundreds of fireflies blinked rhythmically, much alike houses in farangland arond christmas time.
This boat ride was truly magic.
Amphawa floating market by night
All in all, I can really recommend you going to Amphawa, especially the boat ride in the darkness! It's very romantic...
Friday, June 5, 2009
Cheeky me
Gosh I am tired. Today was a pretty usual, but still eventful day.
In the morning, me and the bf set off from his apartment to pick up our Chinese visas at the Embassy on Ratchada. A breeze actually, not like Thai immigration.
At the Chinese Embassy, things work quickly and without a smile or anything similar. Yet, the Thai lady behind the counter managed to steal 1000 baht from me.
The visa costs 1650 baht, and I gave her 3000, because I didnt know the price. I got back 350 baht. I complained but she wouldnt have any of it. BITCH!!!!! I hope she buys a proper handbag at least.
Then, I had the usual day at the faculty, writing intellingent stuff into my computer, while the new class had their lessons in the room next door.
The new class has one attraction for me: A very cute man named Yen. He said: Yen like the Japanese currency, not "yen" as in "cold".
Yen is the quite typical upper-middle class gay boy, with stylish clothes, make-up, a ton of product in his hair and an Americanised Thai English. He's cute though.
We have been eyeing each other a bit and oddly met in the toilet. I do not like to stand at the urinals next to a cute guy for some well-known reason, so my intuition said: go into the cubicle!!! I did and Yen came in 2 seconds later.
We talked a little, but it's all on a very low temperature. Whenever we stumble on each other, we have an awkward talk, but that's it.
Today, I was in the office alone, because I study a bit longer than the staff. And suddenly, I saw a list with all the class names and I cant resist these things...
I checked who were the men. It's not always easy with Thai names, especially these Thai-Chinese ones. They are so looooooooooooooooong. Something like Petchpornsirimongkol or whatever:)
I had a guess which one out of the 10 males was Yen looking at the email addresses. I chose one and looked it up on facebook. And - I was right!!!
I could have also written down the address and the telephone number but I am not so creepy, just a bit cheeky. Now, what to do with this email address and facebook profile?
In the morning, me and the bf set off from his apartment to pick up our Chinese visas at the Embassy on Ratchada. A breeze actually, not like Thai immigration.
At the Chinese Embassy, things work quickly and without a smile or anything similar. Yet, the Thai lady behind the counter managed to steal 1000 baht from me.
The visa costs 1650 baht, and I gave her 3000, because I didnt know the price. I got back 350 baht. I complained but she wouldnt have any of it. BITCH!!!!! I hope she buys a proper handbag at least.
Then, I had the usual day at the faculty, writing intellingent stuff into my computer, while the new class had their lessons in the room next door.
The new class has one attraction for me: A very cute man named Yen. He said: Yen like the Japanese currency, not "yen" as in "cold".
Yen is the quite typical upper-middle class gay boy, with stylish clothes, make-up, a ton of product in his hair and an Americanised Thai English. He's cute though.
We have been eyeing each other a bit and oddly met in the toilet. I do not like to stand at the urinals next to a cute guy for some well-known reason, so my intuition said: go into the cubicle!!! I did and Yen came in 2 seconds later.
We talked a little, but it's all on a very low temperature. Whenever we stumble on each other, we have an awkward talk, but that's it.
Today, I was in the office alone, because I study a bit longer than the staff. And suddenly, I saw a list with all the class names and I cant resist these things...
I checked who were the men. It's not always easy with Thai names, especially these Thai-Chinese ones. They are so looooooooooooooooong. Something like Petchpornsirimongkol or whatever:)
I had a guess which one out of the 10 males was Yen looking at the email addresses. I chose one and looked it up on facebook. And - I was right!!!
I could have also written down the address and the telephone number but I am not so creepy, just a bit cheeky. Now, what to do with this email address and facebook profile?
Thursday, June 4, 2009
A bit of eye-candy
After all these heavy topics, lets loosen up a bit and just enjoy the sight!
I have a new official supplier of eye-candy. He is from Australia and likes to send me pictures of gorgeous men! Lets all give him a big round of applause!!!
Hope you enjoyed, thanks to Sydney again!:)
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
i HEART bkk - for (nearly) everything
Today, I was going to write an article about how I actually love Thai people, but then I noticed a vigorous debate over at gayboythailand.com about the benefits (or not) of living here.
The blog's owner, Silom Farang is pondering leaving Thailand, as he is in a "rot". He defines a rot as: "when Westerners in Thailand feel they are stuck, not progressing, or even going backwards in terms of career, private life or intellectual development."
That really got me (and some other commentators on his blog) thinking. When I read forums such as Thaivisa.com or Silom's blog, I often enounter the "bitter anti-Thai farang who just complains".
The first reaction is of course: why are you here? I suppose they might be in a "rot". But then, why are you STILL here?
Farang in a rot?
Lets be honest. Not many people move to Thailand to progress socially and intellectually and make a great choice of career. We are/were lured by other benefits.
For me personally, the benefits of living here are obvious, but the drawbacks are clear too. Lets discuss a bit...
First, the drawbacks:
1. A Westerner working here will earn considerably less than in farangland.
A baht is not a dollar...
3. The people. I love Thai people. They are fun! Lately, I havent been in a good mood, but whenever I leave my building, someone will be there to put a smile on my face! This happens every single day.
The Thais are lovely! Especially the food stand ladies!
I can understand and agree with Silom's point about getting annoyed at the superficial chit-chat.
They are lazy, treat farang badly and only work for money, I read in forums. I say: Dont you enjoy being lazy with them? Isnt it amazing that you can walk around with a boy 40 years younger and hardly anyone cares? Isnt it amazing how far Thais go to help you sometimes, without even asking for money!
Sabaai sabaai, maybe not so bad after all?
I try to join the club and bitch and laugh with my Thai friends, while being more serious with my other friends and the bf. It works!
4.Thai society. I hate hi-so people, can not stand their arrogance and them thinking it's their god-given right to drive a Merc, be rude to everyone, look good and fly TG on their ultra-gold royal orchid platinum cards. BUT, for a large part, Thai society is relatively healthy.
Despite what is shown on TV about reds and yellows and the huge social imbalances, Thais are peaceful and relaxed people. Money does not drive their life and competition is a foreign word for Thais, who rather like to cooperate. This may not be beneficial for the economy but perhaps makes for a healthier society.
5. The lifestyle. In Thailand, we foreigners can live like kings, lets face it! Most of us live a much better lifestyle than we could ever imagine "at home".
View from my old condo, not bad!
And we can still have all the comforts of home! Germans can eat Wurst and read der Spiegel, the French can watch TV5 monde on TV, the Italians can eat their pizza, the Swiss can buy their Gruyere cheese and the Aussies their Tim Tam's. It's all here, and I havent talked about Chinese, Korean and Japanese goodies!
6. Travel! Bangkok must be one of the world's best starting points for trips! Flights to all sorts of countries are cheap! (I am visiting China for 100$US return)
Think about Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia (sorry Malaysia and Singapore are too boring *blink*), even Burma, India, the Philippines, it's all so close!!!
See where Thailand is? In the middle!
And you dont even have to leave Thailand. I love bus-trips out of BKK. In a few hours you can lie on a beach, hike in mountains, look at temples or just soak up the more relaxed athmosphere of the country-towns.
I am currently doing research on why Europeans come to Thailand to study at a university - we all know the reasons. Fun, travel, save money and f*ck girls or boys and a great lifestyle!
Unfortunately, I am at the beginning of my career, so Thailand is not the best choice. However, I know I will always love this country from the bottom of my heart!
The blog's owner, Silom Farang is pondering leaving Thailand, as he is in a "rot". He defines a rot as: "when Westerners in Thailand feel they are stuck, not progressing, or even going backwards in terms of career, private life or intellectual development."
That really got me (and some other commentators on his blog) thinking. When I read forums such as Thaivisa.com or Silom's blog, I often enounter the "bitter anti-Thai farang who just complains".
The first reaction is of course: why are you here? I suppose they might be in a "rot". But then, why are you STILL here?
Farang in a rot?
Lets be honest. Not many people move to Thailand to progress socially and intellectually and make a great choice of career. We are/were lured by other benefits.
For me personally, the benefits of living here are obvious, but the drawbacks are clear too. Lets discuss a bit...
First, the drawbacks:
1. A Westerner working here will earn considerably less than in farangland.
A baht is not a dollar...
2....and following up on that, career-wise, Thailand means basically nothing for Western businesses. "I worked in Thailand." No future employer will be impressed by this...
These two are the most important reasons why I am leaving Bangkok at the end of this year...I will most probably become bitchofsydney then:)
and now it gets difficult...maybe the dating scene, and lack of possible "husbands" (see ealier discussion), the lack of green areas in Bangkok, the traffic, the dirtiness of the streets, or perhaps the cultural differences which make it really hard to become part of Thai society.
Yes, these are disadvantages
What about the advantages?
1. Bangkok in its entirety! It offers absolutely everything...and I am still discovering. It's a thrilling place!
Tourists come here for a reason - we are blessed to live in BKK!
3. The people. I love Thai people. They are fun! Lately, I havent been in a good mood, but whenever I leave my building, someone will be there to put a smile on my face! This happens every single day.
The Thais are lovely! Especially the food stand ladies!
I can understand and agree with Silom's point about getting annoyed at the superficial chit-chat.
They are lazy, treat farang badly and only work for money, I read in forums. I say: Dont you enjoy being lazy with them? Isnt it amazing that you can walk around with a boy 40 years younger and hardly anyone cares? Isnt it amazing how far Thais go to help you sometimes, without even asking for money!
Sabaai sabaai, maybe not so bad after all?
I try to join the club and bitch and laugh with my Thai friends, while being more serious with my other friends and the bf. It works!
4.Thai society. I hate hi-so people, can not stand their arrogance and them thinking it's their god-given right to drive a Merc, be rude to everyone, look good and fly TG on their ultra-gold royal orchid platinum cards. BUT, for a large part, Thai society is relatively healthy.
Despite what is shown on TV about reds and yellows and the huge social imbalances, Thais are peaceful and relaxed people. Money does not drive their life and competition is a foreign word for Thais, who rather like to cooperate. This may not be beneficial for the economy but perhaps makes for a healthier society.
5. The lifestyle. In Thailand, we foreigners can live like kings, lets face it! Most of us live a much better lifestyle than we could ever imagine "at home".
View from my old condo, not bad!
And we can still have all the comforts of home! Germans can eat Wurst and read der Spiegel, the French can watch TV5 monde on TV, the Italians can eat their pizza, the Swiss can buy their Gruyere cheese and the Aussies their Tim Tam's. It's all here, and I havent talked about Chinese, Korean and Japanese goodies!
6. Travel! Bangkok must be one of the world's best starting points for trips! Flights to all sorts of countries are cheap! (I am visiting China for 100$US return)
Think about Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia (sorry Malaysia and Singapore are too boring *blink*), even Burma, India, the Philippines, it's all so close!!!
See where Thailand is? In the middle!
And you dont even have to leave Thailand. I love bus-trips out of BKK. In a few hours you can lie on a beach, hike in mountains, look at temples or just soak up the more relaxed athmosphere of the country-towns.
I am currently doing research on why Europeans come to Thailand to study at a university - we all know the reasons. Fun, travel, save money and f*ck girls or boys and a great lifestyle!
Unfortunately, I am at the beginning of my career, so Thailand is not the best choice. However, I know I will always love this country from the bottom of my heart!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
